Government launches AI jobs scheme for young people

The Government has announced a new partnership between industry, trade unions and employers aimed at helping young people access jobs and training opportunities as artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the labour market.

The initiative includes the creation of the Early Careers Jobs Alliance, which will examine how AI is affecting entry-level roles and identify ways businesses can maintain pathways into employment for young workers.

Backed by £20m in funding, the alliance will initially focus on the digital and technology sector before expanding across all eight sectors covered by the Government’s Industrial Strategy.

An initial report is expected to be published later this year.

The announcement also includes a wider package of support through the Government’s TechFirst programme, which will provide AI and technology training to at least 400,000 students from disadvantaged schools across the UK.

Students will have access to skills sessions, competitions, extracurricular activities and industry engagement programmes designed to encourage careers in technology and AI.

In addition, a new AI bootcamp programme will launch this summer across five local authority areas in Lancashire and Greater Manchester.

The pilot will provide young people at risk of becoming unemployed after completing GCSEs with AI training and guaranteed access to paid apprenticeships.